UFC middleweight champion Dricus “Stillknocks” du Plessis will face his toughest challenge yet against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 on August 16. The South African’s undefeated record in the UFC is on the line, with his gold belt hanging in the balance. Du Plessis has long been vocal about bringing MMA to Africa, and if he emerges victorious, he plans to take the issue up with Dana White.
Du Plessis has remained undefeated in the UFC, but his upcoming fight against Chimaev will be his first on US soil since 2023. If he wins, he’ll have a stronger case for taking the UFC to Africa. The promotion’s executive vice president, Dave Shaw, has confirmed that an African event is likely for 2025, citing significant interest from several countries.
Shaw noted that there are operational challenges to consider, including timing and timezone differences, but if Dana White wants to grow the sport and make a good first impression in Africa, he’ll need to take action. Du Plessis has been making a case for an African event, and with his championship status on the line, he’s likely to keep pushing for it.
Source: https://bloodyelbow.com/2025/08/09/dricus-du-plessis-plans-to-push-for-dana-white-to-grant-his-ufc-dream-after-beating-khamzat-chimaev